Rodri didn't hesitate when naming Premier League player alongside Lionel Messi as his toughest opponent

Manchester City midfielder Rodri was in no doubt when he named his toughest opponent alongside Lionel Messi.

Rodri, 28, has not played since he sustained an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during Manchester City’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal in the Premier League back in September.

And his absence has been noticeable as City have struggled to find a consistent run of form.

The likes of Mateo Kovacic, Rico Lewis and new signing Nico Gonzalez have all filled in but have yet to find the level of the Spaniard.

Back in October 2024, Rodri picked up the Ballon d’Or despite Real Madrid forward Vini Jr supposedly being the favourite ahead of the ceremony in Paris, France.

The award usually recognises the best player in the world from the previous season.

Although most of Rodri’s actions on a football pitch look effortless, he still put two players above the rest when naming his toughest opponent.

Speaking to JD, he said: “I would say two. Of course, for me, the best player I faced and the most difficult one has been [Lionel] Messi by far.

“But if I have to tell you in my career, I would say Mo Salah because many times we face them.

"We all know the rivalry we have between City and Liverpool. And wow, he’s a fantastic player. But it’s so so painful when he’s at his best level.”

Mo Salah in action against Man City (Credit:Getty)

Salah, 32, will no doubt be hoping to secure this year's edition of the Ballon d'Or, having registered 29 goals and 20 assists in the 2024/25 campaign.

The Egyptian will be one of the favourites to win the award, although the likes of Vini Jr and Kylian Mbappe may have something to say about that.

"I am really motivated to win the Premier League," Salah explained in an interview with Sky Sports last month.

"90% of winning an individual award depends on your performance with the team and winning a trophy with the team.

"If you win with your team, you have a better chance to win a Ballon d'Or or something like that.

"I don't just want to have a small part.

"I want to win it and then for people to say he made the difference and made the team win."